tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13173107336108140902024-03-15T18:09:54.606-07:00FrontkämpferRemembering the German soldiers of both world wars and their equipment. With special emphasis placed upon the Ostfront (both factual and fantastic)Ritter von Krautheimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17968609436115962418noreply@blogger.comBlogger62125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317310733610814090.post-49409576955830117102015-02-18T05:58:00.000-08:002015-02-19T09:39:53.815-08:00An old project returns...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The monstrosity from the front.</td></tr>
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Way back in 2011 I <a href="http://frontkaempfer.blogspot.co.uk/2011/06/munitionspanzerjager-38t-progress.html">posted my plans</a> for an improvised tank killer on an old 38(t) chassis. Following a move of house it was boxed and retired. <br />
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Recent reading has kindled my interest in the Royal Hungarian Army. Often belittled, these troops fought bravely against the Red Army (and others) for nearly four years. Their equipment was in short supply and what they had was often second-rate. However they fought right until the end of the war, the final stages spent defending what little of their Country was unoccupied and then retreating West.<br />
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Now, the "Honvedseg" was equipped with domestic and foreign AFVs. In 1942 a good number of Panzers 38(t) were provided by Germany. The Magyars had a distinct lack of anti-tank capability and thus are prime candidates for using my "Frankenstein" vehicle. Cobbled together from an old tank chassis and a salvaged F34 cannon sourced from a T34/76, the vehicle will lend some much needed "punch" to my nascent "Honved" platoon.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwHxARWlxxoQOA7jAB1dGbyZ-Y6xDZ3h5XuAI0FJBox_-ewrnd3kDpkbwbK0VIV9thGXZPCvCw_5aUHhBAe9QbPhdd_SQwbh3m3CR03dACvick4QVDbJBXpmFtD2d35Z9Q2bZhhvTSIfU/s1600/_20150218_113403.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwHxARWlxxoQOA7jAB1dGbyZ-Y6xDZ3h5XuAI0FJBox_-ewrnd3kDpkbwbK0VIV9thGXZPCvCw_5aUHhBAe9QbPhdd_SQwbh3m3CR03dACvick4QVDbJBXpmFtD2d35Z9Q2bZhhvTSIfU/s1600/_20150218_113403.JPG" height="197" title="" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Side elevation.</td></tr>
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I am intending to use various Warlord plastic sets for the infantry (Soviet Winter and German - both Early and late) converting as needed. I will be using a few Woodbine M16 "WW1 Turkish" heads to add a bit of variety. These helmets were in use for the duration of the conflict (by Germany also!) In addition I will be sculpting the odd moustache. I find the easiest way to do this is with heavily thinned "Squadron Green Putty" as my usual epoxy never adheres.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtnLPrQz012ebNx2bTyMjaazX2KzeY4uVAr0RkkqvV-LWRnU9Lt3R22HCaQuI_yojgcmdcFHYOujn_-ZjU-7EN2y6uE-dvoImjiR5pT25ENh0cxCuaI90jcY_750j0gY0ItyyCbC5uRts/s1600/_20150218_113454.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtnLPrQz012ebNx2bTyMjaazX2KzeY4uVAr0RkkqvV-LWRnU9Lt3R22HCaQuI_yojgcmdcFHYOujn_-ZjU-7EN2y6uE-dvoImjiR5pT25ENh0cxCuaI90jcY_750j0gY0ItyyCbC5uRts/s1600/_20150218_113454.JPG" height="320" width="256" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">WIP commader - he ain't got no time for the monkey business.</td></tr>
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The commander (Szazados Frigyes Higany) is nearly finished and tank needs some bits added (Not least the foul-weather tarp) but this may be added to the spray queue soon!<br />
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Ritter von Krautheimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17968609436115962418noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317310733610814090.post-41843504472603950932015-02-07T04:30:00.002-08:002015-02-07T15:19:36.574-08:00Part 1a: Panzerbefehlswagen 740 (r)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
After taking a pause, it became glaringly obvious that the aerial had to go. The T26 kit is an absolute dog but I couldn't justify the over-scale antenna by such reasoning! After all, I am attempting to make something good!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Toothpick is a spacer until the epoxy dries.</td></tr>
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I prised off the already glued aerial (amazing how resilient super glue is when you don't want it to be!) and removed the tree-trunk supports. I have made a new frame from thin brass rod and need to visit my local (unfriendly) model shop for some appropriately sized styrene rod.</div>
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Other bits of stowage have been added along with an unditching log. Still to come is some gap filling and the "soft" stowage. Both achieved with a mixture of epoxy putties. Also, I have a bit of chain that will look quite good when artfully draped.</div>
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Now, time for a coffee and bath...</div>
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Ritter von Krautheimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17968609436115962418noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317310733610814090.post-61665395541344738332015-02-06T11:14:00.000-08:002015-02-06T11:51:16.766-08:00"Upcycling" - a question of command.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb1WqsMbKB1nJh4J68GzVDMQiLgvNpJY4WkNao5b9BaEjMmhBTJ4xdgrzMVJjnw-Jlu7s2Lb94cdf2oMyQP16YZ3tD6tuRCDTJC5ZY3GlT2lyLE0RXlyd3ra9GUbVxpJWEZXUXBI1_AOs/s1600/Bundesarchiv_Bild_101I-265-0006-31,_Russland,_Befehlspanzer_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb1WqsMbKB1nJh4J68GzVDMQiLgvNpJY4WkNao5b9BaEjMmhBTJ4xdgrzMVJjnw-Jlu7s2Lb94cdf2oMyQP16YZ3tD6tuRCDTJC5ZY3GlT2lyLE0RXlyd3ra9GUbVxpJWEZXUXBI1_AOs/s1600/Bundesarchiv_Bild_101I-265-0006-31,_Russland,_Befehlspanzer_1.jpg" height="204" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nice shot of a Panzerbefehlswagen I.</td></tr>
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With the new year has come substantial resolve. Both to get fit (well, less unfit!) and to get some of the long considered projects completed. I spent most of my January free-time improving a diecast Panzer IV toy - more of which in another post. However this left me needing a command vehicle for my kampfgruppe.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy1ukAJJaJ0-q4xI7DSbd2s8HjWv3jds81b5bdRjpF9oZndZZsOnzA5Tjr_ZfxzM2XEcEkfVCe3mso531tb_PSRYa5UMWhZnjue7VGvozRIUQF6CFi1Sn5_ZUV0HCc8StBhvDzuC8IWcQ/s1600/8235507612_9c08e1c6d6_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy1ukAJJaJ0-q4xI7DSbd2s8HjWv3jds81b5bdRjpF9oZndZZsOnzA5Tjr_ZfxzM2XEcEkfVCe3mso531tb_PSRYa5UMWhZnjue7VGvozRIUQF6CFi1Sn5_ZUV0HCc8StBhvDzuC8IWcQ/s1600/8235507612_9c08e1c6d6_z.jpg" height="216" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">As can be seen, frame antennae come in different shapes!</td></tr>
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Now I could have gone for a bog-standard command vehicle like an SdKfz 250 or 251 but I wanted something "different" and with a frame aerial. I like the look of the Panzerbefehlswagen I but couldn't find one online and also didn't fancy forking out for another model. Thus I decided to think outside the box and produce something unique.<br />
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A quick trip to the loft produced a rather nasty T26 bought from an Ebay seller. It was warped and the track units are different lengths (both being too short!) It cost me very little and I suspect it is a "knock-off" so I didnt mind chopping it up.<br />
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The solution to my problem came to me at about 05:00 today after the Nitrazepam wore off. I would create a "Beute" Befehlswagen! After a day of tinkering bending and sanding I present the <b>Panzerbefehlswagen 740 (r)</b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaObXB0_DnvNiZvVcHH3sCEEAHEABgYIQ_sI0mINGfYbb9WnZhBMb1k1reS9Vb0os0QRzhdS5FCtQ2TTcC-ppUBxbGtlyTxoIAnXWPAzUWddsa6hraIVDUSOo8Q-8UZn8LeTroUpfXM5Q/s1600/_20150206_183642.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaObXB0_DnvNiZvVcHH3sCEEAHEABgYIQ_sI0mINGfYbb9WnZhBMb1k1reS9Vb0os0QRzhdS5FCtQ2TTcC-ppUBxbGtlyTxoIAnXWPAzUWddsa6hraIVDUSOo8Q-8UZn8LeTroUpfXM5Q/s1600/_20150206_183642.JPG" height="300" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Figures for size reference.</td></tr>
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This monster was cobbled together in an unidentified workshop at the request of an officer short of a mount. He didn't wish to "waste" a gun-tank so had his men create a custom vehicle from parts. The aerial from a scout car, the cupola from a written off Panzer III and some sheet steel cut from a destroyed Hanomag. All these mixed with some ingenuity and the command vehicle was born!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYC4sYBKoEzB1HwM8k4STXR8rZQHrPZ_Y2HBQOkF2AHPKI9XghVTIIIZRW05WAe-xa00p3-hhnPIPbBQKZsm8UgDUqMXdPw7NTch1BlwaXSjyiUqZeRhrRuXu2P_Hq52JpknBo-HStAMU/s1600/_20150206_183730.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYC4sYBKoEzB1HwM8k4STXR8rZQHrPZ_Y2HBQOkF2AHPKI9XghVTIIIZRW05WAe-xa00p3-hhnPIPbBQKZsm8UgDUqMXdPw7NTch1BlwaXSjyiUqZeRhrRuXu2P_Hq52JpknBo-HStAMU/s1600/_20150206_183730.JPG" height="318" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rudimentary MG port shown.</td></tr>
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As can be seen it is not finished needing tidying up, filling, sanding and more detailing. Also it is far from perfect having an overscale antenna. However any thinner and I think it would be prone to breakage during a game. The supports will be replaced as they look like tree trunks!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4jVSHlk6WesYqpvxyAi8vLK9T1JVn_sHvg1s6PYbfrdv9RnMxRfQ_oNRqO-3MPXBXMJrcoz3fQJ1cJM11p7IxOoiF_HIW8CV9G3MdKsHXeWglXXnLXa8u30lIQ5m0QVBR-4yZLHWME70/s1600/_20150206_183701.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4jVSHlk6WesYqpvxyAi8vLK9T1JVn_sHvg1s6PYbfrdv9RnMxRfQ_oNRqO-3MPXBXMJrcoz3fQJ1cJM11p7IxOoiF_HIW8CV9G3MdKsHXeWglXXnLXa8u30lIQ5m0QVBR-4yZLHWME70/s1600/_20150206_183701.JPG" height="284" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rear hatch and home-cast stowage boxes.</td></tr>
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The track units have (I hope) been disguised and a coat of gunk will help this process further. The (lucky?) commander is already modelled and just needs to be seated in his cupola and then this should be ready for the spray booth. It will be in Soviet green and panzergrau with a winter over-paint making it usable for almost the whole war. I am currently deciding which technique should be used to portray chipped and worn whitewash...<br />
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Anyway, I am pretty happy and hope this is of interest to someone!<br />
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Ritter von Krautheimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17968609436115962418noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317310733610814090.post-69316842974904193232015-01-04T13:16:00.003-08:002015-01-04T17:24:43.464-08:00"New StuGs for old!"<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I don't like Christmas. Faux festive cheer, crusty celebrities and depressing decorations...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2D3T_OtKao3zGpq_2nLRpF2z4oRxGkLAgtE1qA0Ttvz6wYFtmVMJune9yizTVnhPRYKa7vht6ja0r2pMaqmD0_HJuTuAkFFO5vlpui5_GjbEafWCuyjIEGiDlhc-6kpW8B4_dBZTanlg/s1600/STUG_front_cover-300x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2D3T_OtKao3zGpq_2nLRpF2z4oRxGkLAgtE1qA0Ttvz6wYFtmVMJune9yizTVnhPRYKa7vht6ja0r2pMaqmD0_HJuTuAkFFO5vlpui5_GjbEafWCuyjIEGiDlhc-6kpW8B4_dBZTanlg/s1600/STUG_front_cover-300x300.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Amazing little books - beautifully produced.</td></tr>
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That said, this year the lady wife gifted me two fantastic books by <a href="http://adhpublishing.com/shop/store/books/">ADH</a> to add to the library! The thin but fact filled tomes detail StuGs from " Bagration to Berlin". Full of informative text, photos and colour profiles - they are a boon to the enthusiast.<br />
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I have long been of the opinion that almost anything goes when it comes to StuGs and perusing the images shows myriad variations.<br />
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Now, about ten years ago I bought one of Tamiya's 1:48 StuG III B kits. Great kit but it got worked on, boxed and shelved. Two house moves and three children later it was an abandoned project. Then these books gave me an idea, resurrect the beast and produce an Endkampf oddity. To my amazement I found most of the bits in the attic - not the hatch, this will be made from plastic sheet.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdTgYR6vRWrbW-GC8hQ5nZ-2S5ygLp47TqgmvaaPl0bI-e6h3feU6CeiyWd_WLzbOgGCW1oVmI1bFVpWXvd2KEjwGhI1q6mV86uNkDWX33Hm_1ImtAn5iia-kc-d-khbsjdXc3KnMSAvA/s1600/_20150104_203603.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdTgYR6vRWrbW-GC8hQ5nZ-2S5ygLp47TqgmvaaPl0bI-e6h3feU6CeiyWd_WLzbOgGCW1oVmI1bFVpWXvd2KEjwGhI1q6mV86uNkDWX33Hm_1ImtAn5iia-kc-d-khbsjdXc3KnMSAvA/s1600/_20150104_203603.JPG" height="224" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Epoxy concrete armour and sight aperture.</td></tr>
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As can be seen, the project is nowhere near completion. However the beast is taking shape. Concrete armour, heavy stowage and fender damage is in place. Hatches, running gear, armament (aluminium StuK 40 in topfblende) and a bit more clutter to add.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1aRcfqpVzkSOPMo377lqe3RYEXcbTFpfruwT5KunDcMhr4oo1uqBcGKn8ZLbIna4yemT2dB_LCuvX6EReSSdzah4e372i9pngxEh1nGUzNJf0e_jnAfO4cpX6vd6qXs2bnc3i6ZRy7R8/s1600/_20150104_203507.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1aRcfqpVzkSOPMo377lqe3RYEXcbTFpfruwT5KunDcMhr4oo1uqBcGKn8ZLbIna4yemT2dB_LCuvX6EReSSdzah4e372i9pngxEh1nGUzNJf0e_jnAfO4cpX6vd6qXs2bnc3i6ZRy7R8/s1600/_20150104_203507.JPG" height="236" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rear view showing stowage etc.</td></tr>
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A commander will be peering out of the hatch trying to spot the rapidly approaching "Ivans".<br />
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This project has cost me very little* and feels like a freebie! This makes it even more appealing.<br />
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*Yes I paid for the kit but after a decade it doesn't count!<br />
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Ritter von Krautheimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17968609436115962418noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317310733610814090.post-86447973945127485162014-06-20T09:48:00.001-07:002014-06-22T14:35:26.310-07:00Mystery vehicle.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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As discussed on TMP, I saw this beast on a very poor documentary concerning "Nazi Cows" or some such nonsence. The clip is very short, perhaps 2 seconds long, however the vehicle (Sd.kfz 10?) can be seen and the armament is not a German PaK36, 38 or 40. The shield suggests that it is Soviet as does the lack of muzzle break - the cannon barrel is just visible in the last half second.</div>
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I am sure it is another of the numerous "field conversions" seen so often but if anyone has more details I would be very interested.</div>
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Ritter von Krautheimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17968609436115962418noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317310733610814090.post-87767191009644728872013-08-25T05:23:00.000-07:002013-08-25T05:25:14.089-07:00Hiccups in 15mm...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Readers will be aware I have embarked upon the creation of a 15mm "Kowel 1944" themed army for the Bolt Action rules system. This is due mainly to space constraints as I have a lot of 28mm figures lurking about. That said, the relatively low cost is also very appealing to a cheapskate such as myself.<br />
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Anyway, I had been working on a rediscovered StuG III G and things were going well. However I had niggling doubts concerning the cast cupola armour. This started production in late '43 but try as I might I could find no photos or film of thus protected vehicles in spring '44. It bothered me...<br />
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Salvation came in the form of Battlefront's plastic StuGs, one of which is being reverse engineered to late '43 spec. More of this process in the future.<br />
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I had a rare burst of enthusiasm yesterday and got the required SPW assembled. These are from the PSC kits and are rather nice. Although I think some reinforcement of the front wheels will be needed as they appear fragile.<br />
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The next stage is to add foul-weather canopies to the 251s, sculpt some limbs and sort out detail on the StuG. With a bit of luck the holiday weekend will allow this.<br />
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As can be seen in the photo below, I have found a LeIG and some mortars that, when added to the Infanterie, will bring me up to the desired 1000pts. I am determined to complete this project, although the pull of the Renaissance is getting stronger.<br />
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Ritter von Krautheimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17968609436115962418noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317310733610814090.post-57429482161565747232013-08-02T00:46:00.001-07:002013-08-02T00:50:16.897-07:00StuG im Schlamm #2<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Another evening spent on this creature. <br />
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Added stowage comprising: oil drum, cast box, jerry can and two pieces of wine cork covered with a "greenstuff/Milliput" tarp. The drum was drilled and pinned into the chassis to act as an anchor for the other bits.<br />
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I didn't like the over thick hatch cover, so made one from a disc of styrene sheet. MG guard was reshaped and trimmed.<br />
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Spare track links and gun/mantlet had been taken from a PSC sprue. The end of the barrel drilled and joins filled with liquid Squadron putty.<br />
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Various details to be added tonight. Plus the figure sculpting... I may well fabricate some schürzen from plastic sheet.<br />
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I am fairly happy considering the mediocre nature of the Battlefront model. Apologies for poor photos, a dingy room coupled with a Nexus phone camera doesn't equal good pictures!</div>
Ritter von Krautheimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17968609436115962418noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317310733610814090.post-75190587064982757802013-08-01T01:59:00.000-07:002015-01-04T17:21:26.603-08:00StuG im Schlamm!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Presently, I am on holiday in North Wales. As it rains a good deal and I have three children to mind at night - I took along some modelling supplies as a diversion.<br />
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The current project is Bolt Action 15mm and I decided on a 1:100 StuG. Having found some (long forgotten) Battlefront resins when I moved last week, I chose one of these as the Beastie to work on.<br />
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Only after a long hiatus and viewed next to PSCs plastic versions, have I realised just how horrible the model is. Hardly a straight line and so many inaccuracies - ho hum.<br />
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I have made a scenic base from Milliput surrounding a steel "repair plate". The plate is in there to make the thing usable with magnetic storage - an obsession of mine. Added to the base is a dead Ivan (Peter Pig?), a goodly amount of texture and (intentionally messy) tank tracks. The sides have been sanded to make the construct more "base-like"!<br />
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I am trying to decide on the mantlet. The topfblende may be too late for this spring '44 baby but it is my preferred option at the moment. Time will tell. <br />
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Commander is going to be in a privately "acquired" hooded jacket. The base figure is an old beret wearing bod I found - he may be from Skytrex. <br />
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More to do tonight, now off to a castle or three. :-) </div>
Ritter von Krautheimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17968609436115962418noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317310733610814090.post-1869485823248197002013-07-26T10:10:00.000-07:002013-07-27T05:15:19.022-07:00The benefits of scale creep - 1:76 workshop<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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As my last posting shows, I am toying with Bolt Action as a good system to use for fun and fast games. I reckon I could even coerce my kids into playing with me.<br />
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However, I don't fancy laying out a few hundred plus pounds on armies for them! I have decided to "do" Bolt Action in 15mm - problem solved.<br />
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As always my preferred setting is the late '42 - early '44 period. Inspired by an old newsreel showing the relief of Kowel in early 44, I started thinking of terrain. Light industrial was the decision but I started to wince at the thought of fiddling about in 1:100 rather than my usual 28mm / 1:48. <br />
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I wanted a small factory and chanced upon the local "Modelzone" and it's bankruptcy sale. This is where I found the above. Not cheap at £11 but well cast, sturdy and just right to go with the Hovels ruined chimney I have picked up.<br />
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For your delectation a few snaps showing a (supposedly 1:100) Battlefront Grenadier posing next to the resin cast Airfix 1:76 "European Ruined Workshop". I think you will agree it is pretty near spot-on in size and it sports plenty of firing angles and cover positions. Detail is very good and as can be seen this is present on interior surfaces also. There is an etched brass fret for the window frames.<br />
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On the downside, there are some bubbles (two) and the walls are thick. The former easily filled, the latter no bad thing on a games table.<br />
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<br />
There are a lot of other nominally 1:76 buildings in the series and all are on sale at Modelzone for about 75% retail price.<br />
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If your nerve can hold, wait a few weeks and I am sure they will reduce the price even further.<br />
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All I have to add is a nicely detailed baseboard and I have a generic setting for myriad skirmishes.<br />
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Ritter von Krautheimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17968609436115962418noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317310733610814090.post-92028622266639565652013-05-19T08:23:00.000-07:002013-05-19T08:26:07.435-07:00Bolt Action: Armies of Germany.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdTdMRwbVGuIbOoxtUo0tEAEoEi-eWdThlEg9BvAQQhzPyFRqG0uIVoI78iqERgbgePbJiWLLGueXm22UPWqQdPcGxa87fFyqtUYzvzy0qCQRX5eK5z8ubSHJ_a2WJMd1dF_hMdALfosY/s1600/Armies-of-Germany-cover-600x775.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdTdMRwbVGuIbOoxtUo0tEAEoEi-eWdThlEg9BvAQQhzPyFRqG0uIVoI78iqERgbgePbJiWLLGueXm22UPWqQdPcGxa87fFyqtUYzvzy0qCQRX5eK5z8ubSHJ_a2WJMd1dF_hMdALfosY/s320/Armies-of-Germany-cover-600x775.jpeg" width="247" /></a></div>
<br />
I bought this supplement for Bolt Action as I had decided the ruleset was eminently usable. Sadly, I must say the contents do not quite match the high standard of presentation. <br />
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I am fully aware that as an "expert" I am bound to be overly picky but some inaccuracies really grated. For instance, the rules state that the early war Waffen SS was better equipped than the late. Pure nonsense as the SS-VT had to beg borrow and steal equipment. This resulted in use of Czech firearms, WW1 helmets and even Spanish armoured cars! Only later on did the W-SS start to receive first rate kit in preference to other formations.<br />
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In addition, I understand that the rules are meant to complement Warlord Games' miniatures. However does thus really justify the vehicle omissions? It seems stats are provided for WG models and if they don't produce it - tough. This reminds me of a GW codex requiring you to use approved models only.<br />
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Thus said, there is nothing the book that cannot be easily corrected but the fact remains that corrections are required.<br />
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Ritter von Krautheimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17968609436115962418noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317310733610814090.post-74816406188146246352013-04-22T06:56:00.000-07:002013-04-22T08:39:23.839-07:00Back to the (Ost)front!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
After an indecent hiatus, I decided it was time to resuscitate my wargaming project and create a force from the myriad items I have in the WWII crates.<br />
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I have decided to use the rather popular "Bolt Action" rules by Warlord Games. The decision was based on their widespread use and the fact I got a brand new copy of the rulebook for £12 on Amazon!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR5I_Uk8FRnsTFU27vcQTtqUlnCUrIvR2D6XC0lojgE4_vRjW66rl-BuMy9khGri1sN7EBaTKRZYrP0OIQCyuN8-r58w0BH1W3OIbcQVS46BdNinaXA27x-m1t88n5kY_ieFQ61mlfBY4/s1600/ostfront.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR5I_Uk8FRnsTFU27vcQTtqUlnCUrIvR2D6XC0lojgE4_vRjW66rl-BuMy9khGri1sN7EBaTKRZYrP0OIQCyuN8-r58w0BH1W3OIbcQVS46BdNinaXA27x-m1t88n5kY_ieFQ61mlfBY4/s400/ostfront.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The plan is to create a 1000pt army from parts I have to hand. This will avoid further spending on models and give my force a more realistic feel. No "rules lawyerism" here, just 1000pts of grim Landsers trying to fend off Ivan with whatever they have available!<br />
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The 1943/45 force will be assembled in two 500pt chunks. The first will be on foot featuring understrength squads and support. The second will be mechanised and sport armour and higher command (Major von Hächtel and his unique Hanomag!)<br />
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Hopefully this will spur me on to get an army finished before the New Year!</div>
Ritter von Krautheimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17968609436115962418noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317310733610814090.post-90895861376846831062012-09-04T11:42:00.001-07:002012-09-04T11:51:57.569-07:00Force of Arms 1:56 kits.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_zA_poCcH6tXZRWy2SFjhyphenhyphen-ar5sNoakqfib0fU0twdbPSSqK2qBWJv295JwZfntf4cPV8uyfdYzWXv91GX3CV9gXRlOFxpv6Q87W6GFM8qkaOm6oxocIflLrrpANAeek9DGs9dVZoWV4/s1600/FOAs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_zA_poCcH6tXZRWy2SFjhyphenhyphen-ar5sNoakqfib0fU0twdbPSSqK2qBWJv295JwZfntf4cPV8uyfdYzWXv91GX3CV9gXRlOFxpv6Q87W6GFM8qkaOm6oxocIflLrrpANAeek9DGs9dVZoWV4/s640/FOAs.jpg" width="545" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Figure & straightedge for scale reference.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
As per my recent posting on <a href="http://theminiaturespage.com/">TMP</a>, here people can see the vintage Force of Arms 1:56 / 28mm StuG and Panzer models.<br />
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Thanks for looking.</div>
Ritter von Krautheimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17968609436115962418noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317310733610814090.post-10913753998974016912011-07-26T02:15:00.000-07:002011-07-27T00:10:25.311-07:00Vril and the Hollow Earth.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbffUCzwJDrB779Mjn74xHMp2ij6nRdF1v7EP1bfi7L-Vfb43Z_y5_nUdYXx3ALFVsOs7WIO2WlyTfQOs-BjNxyeWfEb_X7mXjhdLaMVeO8MvqKJrR7ulojvGDjhAH1Oj1K94zKy7yzYk/s1600/hitler_alien.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="153" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbffUCzwJDrB779Mjn74xHMp2ij6nRdF1v7EP1bfi7L-Vfb43Z_y5_nUdYXx3ALFVsOs7WIO2WlyTfQOs-BjNxyeWfEb_X7mXjhdLaMVeO8MvqKJrR7ulojvGDjhAH1Oj1K94zKy7yzYk/s200/hitler_alien.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">GröFaZ and ET? No thanks!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>For a few weeks I have been considering the various options when it comes to "weird" World War II. <br />
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Now as it is a fantasy subject there is no reason that Minotaurs couldn't be enlisted in the Heer fighting against a race of Soviet Gnomes. However, I wanted to keep the whole thing a little more believable (if it can be plausible in the slightest!)<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvbhdhzQfNQJlPxwPNtKYfI-1G97JC0kxEQIRLeYKe-oLgL5MkR_P-usDBw6cpiEO3iZ7u14GE6u-yhh9ykdSprYoO2kTn3pdihYS4gHgqsb3UFywFhzq1GtSsbvYxqzjGznMDeeUF1uY/s1600/haunebu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvbhdhzQfNQJlPxwPNtKYfI-1G97JC0kxEQIRLeYKe-oLgL5MkR_P-usDBw6cpiEO3iZ7u14GE6u-yhh9ykdSprYoO2kTn3pdihYS4gHgqsb3UFywFhzq1GtSsbvYxqzjGznMDeeUF1uY/s200/haunebu.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Interesting but over-done.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div>It is well known that various German societies and some senior figures were searching for "<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vril">Vril</a>" or <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nazism_and_occultism">Hyperborean </a>technologies. Indeed the quest for perpetual motion and free energy was still considered attainable at this time. </div><div><br />
</div><div>Some fringe types had decided the Earth was hollow (there are still believers) and that an advanced race lived in a subterranean realm illuminated by a hidden Sun! </div><div><br />
</div><div>Then of course there is the whole "Haunebu" area where the Germans were supposedly cooperating with Aliens to build flying saucers - a crackpot's wet dream!</div><div><br />
</div><div>Anyway the options are pretty simple:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Alien Tech - Flying discs, rayguns and Antarctic bases.</li>
<li>Anti-grav research based upon "<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Die_glocke">Die Glocke</a>" style experiments.</li>
<li>Vril animated machines and creatures.</li>
</ul><div><br />
</div><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj1Zi5oTXKP6GbUmpFYMOHGtDK0F7swCP2sTI5S_knmgRmQXaT7pb-KT3dkSAxt6TtCAnrqcW1aI_0OZDBejLjg2Fl-KCxDzidhpWIbmzSqcqEiSOS_tRX1cmk_mVwSJ0rRhq8gEwmFlE/s1600/Vrilpanzer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="259" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj1Zi5oTXKP6GbUmpFYMOHGtDK0F7swCP2sTI5S_knmgRmQXaT7pb-KT3dkSAxt6TtCAnrqcW1aI_0OZDBejLjg2Fl-KCxDzidhpWIbmzSqcqEiSOS_tRX1cmk_mVwSJ0rRhq8gEwmFlE/s320/Vrilpanzer.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The concept - Vpz II circa 1943/4.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>I have opted for an admixture of Vril and Anti-Grav technology. </div></div><div><br />
</div><div>The Anti-Grav will allow me to field small scout vehicles that hover above the ground. The weaponry will be strictly in-period and I am planning to base this on the Sdkfz 234 series. </div><div><br />
</div><div>The number of vehicles will be very small as they are produced contrary to Hitler's wishes* and manned by the secretive and paranoid "Projekt Ostara" personnel.</div><div><br />
</div><div>Currently I am awaiting the delivery of the basic chassis from Jez at <a href="http://www.oldcrowmodels.co.uk/">Old Crow</a>. The model I have chosen does not really look too futuristic and with a turret transplant should have a real alternative WWII feel - I just hope the turrets I have in my spares box fit as I have not been able to measure or handle the chassis!</div><div><br />
</div><div>The choice of Vril will also allow me field zombies - Hoorah! - as corpses could easily be reanimated by such an amazing substance!</div><div><br />
</div><div>More to follow - albeit slowly - as vacation season approaches...</div><div><br />
</div><div><i>*A fact often overlooked by "Weird" enthusiasts is that GröFaZ detested the Occult and the bizarre theories of Himmler and Rosenberg. He was far more interested in weapons specs, troop numbers and production than in the search for an Hyperborean civilisation and magical substances.</i></div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
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</div><div><br />
</div></div>Ritter von Krautheimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17968609436115962418noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317310733610814090.post-73317993092370951242011-07-11T04:17:00.000-07:002011-07-11T04:17:35.876-07:00Counter-attacks on the Dniepr late 1943<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/5MWZfimGn6o?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br />
For your delectation another period newsreel showing troops desperately attempting to hold the positions in Ukraine.<br />
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Following the post-Kursk retreat, the first major pause was at this river line. A formidable waterway, the Dniepr would have made a great defensive position. However, the fortifications were not built and GröFaZ insisted upon holding the "essential" Dniepr bend - resulting in the usual mess.<br />
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Some great shots of troopers advancing behind a Tiger I and much more - enjoy!Ritter von Krautheimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17968609436115962418noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317310733610814090.post-5578799144394655632011-07-10T09:56:00.000-07:002011-07-11T04:23:33.706-07:00A walk on the "Weird" side<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhESnlh7_FGpc7IB94qDBSdjN21uCLJOPbtvyH5lVMYIjvjWK6qhg_wo-pTUzMAsMLzOCVD3GKQS-wbdbziP5GZce8UimW6TM7gyerfgjo5kK5TNQhlDHhlHOcH2NtXNsJT3-RWBD100cE/s1600/WWW2a.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhESnlh7_FGpc7IB94qDBSdjN21uCLJOPbtvyH5lVMYIjvjWK6qhg_wo-pTUzMAsMLzOCVD3GKQS-wbdbziP5GZce8UimW6TM7gyerfgjo5kK5TNQhlDHhlHOcH2NtXNsJT3-RWBD100cE/s320/WWW2a.png" width="289" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Warm Acre body SoTR head - an experiment!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Recently I have been taking something of a pause from the grim realities of the historical Eastern Front - I have been thinking about the whole Weird War II genre.<br />
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For my more "serious" readers, this wargaming niche revolves around various Occult or Alien intervention during the 1939-45 war. It can be a pretty dark and Satanic place full of Vampires and zombies or a mech-packed sci-fi battlefield - often a mixture of both. Now I am the first to say it is all nonsense but nevertheless it can be entertaining to let the mind wander...<br />
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I decided to create a small skirmish force for "Projekt Ostara" (more of which at a later date) Without delving too much into the background story, Ostara is guided by suitably mad scientists under the patronage of some shady figures. Viral contamination, alien tech and the obligatory walkers are all present - but I wish to maintain a distinctly 1940s feel.<br />
<br />
So with this in mind I have been searching for walkers that look "right" - this has been no easy task. The <a href="http://www.fantasyflightgames.com/edge_minisite.asp?eidm=123">Dust Tactics</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AT-43">AT-43</a> miniatures often look quite splendid - especially the former as the designers have taken care to equip the vehicles with "period" weapons. Although good, all still appear a little "high tech" for me - especially when it comes to the Manga-style feet and legs. The SoTR offerings from <a href="http://www.westwindproductions.co.uk/catalog/secrets_of_the_third_reich.php">Westwind Productions</a> are attractive but prompt similar concerns about being "too modern" looking.<br />
<br />
I had reached the end of my tether and decided to abandon the whole idea but then chanced upon Games Workshop's "<a href="http://www.games-workshop.com/gws/catalog/productDetail.jsp?catId=cat440173a&prodId=prod1900031&rootCatGameStyle=">Imperial Guard Sentinel</a>". This bipedal beast is small and rickety looking - just up my alley. In addition it is a plastic kit - thus making conversion simple. Most importantly the feet look spot-on! <br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq9xIvCnsle6kHPQ5G_O93ht6tHhce-1tMI9GEFHKv3thZ6rIheY3AQgex2YbmSkBXwsX5uQGbpUL0qVcXEuZyf92LDCKTfsJLKbw-rQMsTX824oDKjW2x0rcETfx2oy328KNrFbfWIyo/s1600/www2b.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq9xIvCnsle6kHPQ5G_O93ht6tHhce-1tMI9GEFHKv3thZ6rIheY3AQgex2YbmSkBXwsX5uQGbpUL0qVcXEuZyf92LDCKTfsJLKbw-rQMsTX824oDKjW2x0rcETfx2oy328KNrFbfWIyo/s320/www2b.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Sentinel undergoing back-dating.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>After braving the local store (full of sweating teenagers with an over-worked and over-enthusiastic staffer trying to cope) I set to work on removing the GW feel. At the moment it is in the very early stages of conversion but I think it has promise. Once the styrene cement has set I will get to work removing rivets and adding some epoxy putty weld seams. In addition the hatch needs to be worked on so that a commander can be added.<br />
<br />
<br />
The vehicle is armed with an auto-loading 7.5cm L/24 cannon and is intended to be a recon support vehicle - somewhat akin to the Sdkfz 234/3. The crew will be (a cramped) two men with a medium range wireless set<br />
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I am very interested to learn if others have used these models as a base for "Weird" walkers.Ritter von Krautheimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17968609436115962418noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317310733610814090.post-37791198197105932882011-06-30T08:55:00.000-07:002011-07-08T11:00:26.341-07:00Waffen SS in action early 1943<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/j-dVuSught8?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">A very nice episode of "Die Deutsche Wochenschau" - this time showing the Waffen SS in action during "Mansteins Counterstroke" in the Charkow area.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Lots of great afv and uniform shots plus a few personalities including the (in)famous Max Wünsche. Inspirational stuff for anyone modelling the winterised Wehrmacht!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div>Ritter von Krautheimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17968609436115962418noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317310733610814090.post-26941875250169242312011-06-29T01:19:00.000-07:002011-06-29T01:20:31.399-07:00Wochenbild #12<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE_LIBjCQiKM4SHD8P1pw9XxDK6oDYz9NkkBRVcF8zBUh0NyWcReOauWeWDPElhPXbOA62k5po2z1yjzhyTwm9ZexNsG7TmevuvY9kUegwTUwL3qDPZ8DG4vkgnuAFfULhjMLfAP24VeI/s1600/LB900winter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="204" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE_LIBjCQiKM4SHD8P1pw9XxDK6oDYz9NkkBRVcF8zBUh0NyWcReOauWeWDPElhPXbOA62k5po2z1yjzhyTwm9ZexNsG7TmevuvY9kUegwTUwL3qDPZ8DG4vkgnuAFfULhjMLfAP24VeI/s320/LB900winter.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>To cool us down on these hot summer days, a picture showing the freezing conditions of Winter 1941/2!<br />
<div><br />
</div><div>This photo is from the same source as <a href="http://frontkaempfer.blogspot.com/2011/04/wochenbild-2.html">PotW #2</a> and once again shows men of Artillerie Lehr Brigade 900. Only one of the soldiers shown has had the good luck to acquire some locally produced fur clothing - however he still looks very cold indeed. </div><div><br />
</div><div>Once again, note the position has been excavated from the snow and ice - in winter the ground was often too frozen to move unless explosives were used.</div><div><br />
</div><div>In the foreground is the rear spade from an artillery piece - at first I thought a leFH 18 but now I am unsure. Can anyone identify the weapon? </div><div><br />
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</div></div>Ritter von Krautheimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17968609436115962418noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317310733610814090.post-55356508945128212352011-06-21T08:12:00.000-07:002011-06-21T08:45:11.253-07:00Wochenbild #11<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkWdklt75SRAAXtxLi40uQ6nwZrheQly26E_dgpq_mBUb6TzbbsWDC1UI33ulodam5uIZdhR7W0xSMfxFJQUF05C-8LDAHO5ruGb551JoseS7irMMxInWYZOSUglG-lpyRxfKlx5XlL5o/s1600/wagons.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="184" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkWdklt75SRAAXtxLi40uQ6nwZrheQly26E_dgpq_mBUb6TzbbsWDC1UI33ulodam5uIZdhR7W0xSMfxFJQUF05C-8LDAHO5ruGb551JoseS7irMMxInWYZOSUglG-lpyRxfKlx5XlL5o/s320/wagons.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Medical wagons somewhere in Russia.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>It's been another week fraught with difficulties so the postings have slowed quite a bit. In the pipeline I have the improvised Panzerjäger and a rather nice recon vehicle based on an historical "what-if". I am also being side-tracked by a "Weird War" idea that meshes with these projects...<br />
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Anyway, number eleven in my series is a rather forlorn scene. No details on the reverse but the content is self-explanatory. Medical care was often rough and ready in the East and the dearth of antibiotics in wartime Germany certainly made infection even more deadly. To be incapacitated in an horse-drawn ambulance or cart might sound scary but the alternative was probably a slow death in the field or worse still capture by the Soviets!</div>Ritter von Krautheimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17968609436115962418noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317310733610814090.post-85460245910075455332011-06-14T01:45:00.000-07:002011-06-14T01:59:27.784-07:00I.R. Großdeutschland in action - Winter 1941<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><object class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="http://1.gvt0.com/vi/rZrneA2Kr_k/0.jpg" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/rZrneA2Kr_k&fs=1&source=uds" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/rZrneA2Kr_k&fs=1&source=uds" type="application/x-shockwave-flash"></embed></object></div><br />
I was browsing YouTube the other day and found this footage. In characteristic propaganda style the troops are depicted as advancing through the mud and snow en-route to ultimate victory. In reality the average Landser had by now realised just how ill-prepared they were for a Russian winter.<br />
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Nevertheless, the troops storming (most probably staged) the Kolkhoz display a nice mixture of dress and the terrain shows that an authentic battlefield can be achieved with a couple of Isbas and a copse or two. If you happen to have a few dozen barrels to spare this is the scenario for you!<br />
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The footage of the mine disposal is, in my opinion, authentic as the soldier handles the landmines very gingerly!<br />
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Incidentally, later this week I am going to touch upon the problem of depicting winter 1941/2 in 28mm. There is a dearth of correctly attired figures but I think I have hit upon a solution.</div>Ritter von Krautheimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17968609436115962418noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317310733610814090.post-59623923619555401782011-06-13T01:26:00.000-07:002011-06-13T07:36:12.658-07:00Wochenbild #10<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj5kvaoxoUBsk46H3LePyb2D3WBTsl52YzACvTKCyxobmdrq07kFlkbpNNyBNVV0qdkxB9tgvxJolLbvShvnvPWU3_A20wuXhl0OvVvUeuF7_teyAZ5wLH__ftPlcjUMsMVagZCnUibyA/s1600/FlaK.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj5kvaoxoUBsk46H3LePyb2D3WBTsl52YzACvTKCyxobmdrq07kFlkbpNNyBNVV0qdkxB9tgvxJolLbvShvnvPWU3_A20wuXhl0OvVvUeuF7_teyAZ5wLH__ftPlcjUMsMVagZCnUibyA/s320/FlaK.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Catching up with the news.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>A little later than usual - I am sorry but real life got in the way!<br />
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Today for your delectation we have four Luftwaffe men and their 20mm (?) FlaK. I purchased the photo from a dealer who had clearly split up a LW veteran's album. Some of the photos were taken in the East - others on training/garrison duties on the "Heimatfront" This picture has a barely legible pencil note on the reverse. The legend appears to read: "Stellung Morfecvem"<br />
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Although sold as an "Ostfront" photo, I think this has been mis-labelled. The uniforms are clean and tidy - not something normally seen during Russian winter. The troops are reading pristine newspapers and their hair is neatly clipped. Thus I suspect that this photo was taken taken in or around the "bricklayers' village" of Mörfelden (near Franfurt am Main) What they are guarding is a mystery, although there was a prison in the vicinity.<br />
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Still, a nice clear photo.<br />
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</div>Ritter von Krautheimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17968609436115962418noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317310733610814090.post-46706037327739381572011-06-07T08:05:00.000-07:002011-06-11T08:59:15.431-07:00Welikije Luki - January 1943<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/N-GMuUK9o-M?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br />
Another year, another encirclement - this time <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_for_Velikiye_Luki">Welikije Luki</a>. Although over-shadowed by the tragedy at Stalingrad, this battle was yet another case of troops being ham-strung by High Command's insistence that all ground was held "to the last man".<br />
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Whether this footage was actually shot in the vicinity is anyone's guess but nevertheless it is of value to both the wargamer and modeller. Note the extremely high rate of fire achieved by the 7,5cm leIG!</div>Ritter von Krautheimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17968609436115962418noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317310733610814090.post-55737549318867481802011-06-05T07:23:00.000-07:002011-06-05T07:35:27.921-07:00Wochenbild #9<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilURkIN2eMqylQbJH0fvQJ8K48YV4qTIPsBb5uPk7Goum_Z_-sa7gCWgnK5HJvXHir6Cn03PghPHIvoB7hibO4vlWASTOclAgL5LSyWGCsbtP343e70E5a6QKi5DYW3mGKUY6c2D41wBE/s1600/Cholm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilURkIN2eMqylQbJH0fvQJ8K48YV4qTIPsBb5uPk7Goum_Z_-sa7gCWgnK5HJvXHir6Cn03PghPHIvoB7hibO4vlWASTOclAgL5LSyWGCsbtP343e70E5a6QKi5DYW3mGKUY6c2D41wBE/s320/Cholm.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ex-Soviet bunker - Kholm 1941.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div></div><div>For a change this picture has perfectly legible details on the reverse! The legend is simple: "Bunker, Kholm". So it shows a bunker in or near to the city of Kholm in North/Central Russia. The attire of the soldier suggest Summer/Autumn 1941. </div><div><br />
</div><div>Within six months the city and ad-hoc garrison were encircled during the first major Soviet offensive of the campaign. The defence, led by General Scherer is an epic story of suffering, desperation and heroism. The story of the "<a href="http://www.theeasternfront.co.uk/battles/cholmpocket.htm">pocket</a>" is told in an excellent photo-book: "The Indomitable Defenders of Kholm" well worth purchasing if you find it around.</div><div><br />
</div><div>The details of the bunker's construction are apparent from the shot and it would make a nice little modelling project. "Logs" from garden canes would be a good start...</div><div><br />
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</div></div>Ritter von Krautheimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17968609436115962418noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317310733610814090.post-69321051663278697412011-06-03T11:48:00.000-07:002011-06-04T00:11:38.501-07:00Counter-attack in Latvia 1944<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/5UWX6s4meqo?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br />
Another good film here. This time a counter-attack to restore contact with forces in Kurland.<br />
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Some very nice StuG shots including some soldiers playing "How many men can we fit upon one StuG" My favourite part is the StuG commander letting rip with his MP40!<br />
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</div>Ritter von Krautheimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17968609436115962418noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317310733610814090.post-31550190804828380692011-06-01T10:37:00.000-07:002011-06-13T08:24:14.143-07:00Munitionspanzerjäger 38(t) - Progress<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhen81-Jn0u7q6S96ovXS2PEiJAikpoSHeIJ11vOIGhrMWM9xfQlDV18imRMNqBNx_DOPBNXclIyOB-CuuUi9wuMd9n7l2WURElgAACLb80dAw4xLbdRJjUO5WvQCq7Y515qBlT_ufwzm4/s1600/Munpzj%25C3%25A4g.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhen81-Jn0u7q6S96ovXS2PEiJAikpoSHeIJ11vOIGhrMWM9xfQlDV18imRMNqBNx_DOPBNXclIyOB-CuuUi9wuMd9n7l2WURElgAACLb80dAw4xLbdRJjUO5WvQCq7Y515qBlT_ufwzm4/s320/Munpzj%25C3%25A4g.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The plating is intentionally imperfect.</td></tr>
</tbody></table></div><div>I decided to strike whilst enthusiasm was high and time available. Having cut the shields from "30 thou" plastic-sheet* - I decided they looked too tidy for a scrapyard vehicle. </div><div><br />
</div><div>Inspiration struck in the form of some Tamiya StuG III schürzen. Amazingly the front skirt was of almost identical proportions to the forward part of my template. I have therefore trimmed a couple of these and rotated them into place. The cut-outs used to hang them on the StuG have been kept in-situ. Now the vehicle has a more "rough and ready" look. </div><div><br />
</div><div>The Ultimate Soldier tank hull has had the MG removed - a blank will be fitted to cover the hole. Additionally the loose glacis plate has been repositioned and super-glued into place.</div><div><br />
</div><div>I think I will secure this "plating" with epoxy putty. That way I will not have it springing loose at an inopportune moment. Once securely in place I will add some welding-detail and other bits and pieces including a large wooden ammo locker.</div><div><br />
</div><div>As for the KwK F34(r) - taken from a Hobby Boss T34 - the mount will have (for game purposes) a very limited traverse. Looking at the aperture and pivot, I would estimate this is no more than a total of 20 degrees (probably less)<br />
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To my eyes the project is looking promising. </div><div><br />
</div><div>*30 thou is over-scale but the thinnest sheet with the required strength.</div></div>Ritter von Krautheimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17968609436115962418noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317310733610814090.post-3114742765970267812011-06-01T06:21:00.000-07:002011-06-03T11:49:36.746-07:00Imagineering: Munitionspanzerjäger 38(t) mit KwK F34(r)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJA-k7ReISJHSefe_Xv-qR9NHOgI9_skBPkXfFEgM_Y_UzSMr5e4m3yoUtOzS3V9yLyLIMN0Zc5SsVOHrArKQcmmD9lH-aVaq07XBP95nmnZm7X4IW0t4vEYA6TNxFxYxNo6LGWN60w1A/s1600/Munitionsschlepper38%2528t%2529.ww2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="193" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJA-k7ReISJHSefe_Xv-qR9NHOgI9_skBPkXfFEgM_Y_UzSMr5e4m3yoUtOzS3V9yLyLIMN0Zc5SsVOHrArKQcmmD9lH-aVaq07XBP95nmnZm7X4IW0t4vEYA6TNxFxYxNo6LGWN60w1A/s320/Munitionsschlepper38%2528t%2529.ww2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Munitionspanzer 38(t)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>One of the troubles when starting new projects is too much choice. First of all it is scale, then period - followed closely by the pleasant task of choosing models. I am often derailed by one or all of the above. A case of too many toys and too little time.<br />
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The other factor that proves troubling is my severe trepidation - a simple fear of making a mess. I realised recently that it is almost 20 years since I last completed a 1:35 kit. This hiatus has caused me to become increasingly indecisive! These things cost money and I don't want to waste it. Anyway, it is time to draw a line under this and "Get her done" as our American friends like to say.<br />
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Readers will be aware of my preference for "make do" type vehicles. As I have explained before, improvisation and field modification were very common in the Ostheer - as they are in most armies. In fact almost every documentary I watch these days has some weird field-mod sitting in the background or rolling past whilst the narrator drones on. Of late I have toyed with a few conversions but have settled on this creation as my project of the month!<br />
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The rugged and reliable (yet under-gunned and armoured) Panzer 38(t) was, from 1942/3, frequently relegated to service as a Munitionspanzer. This was a relatively simple conversion involving the removal of the turret and covering the resulting circular hole with a tarpaulin or wooden "lid". Occasionally these vehicles sport a box-like superstructure that appears to be made from sheet-metal - however this seems relatively rare.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVbIoB83e7Qh583xY4S-9zNxdlOBMEPY7FHdo6jidrOjYE0PtA3POk54jxQM6BdAaFHA3fGLTnfwxof90FXX777PYrr3WoGaj0Ebjb46zPN5rV7pp2K-3WLfnWLv2WujiR6V2cytmdm24/s1600/Panzerj%25C3%25A4ger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVbIoB83e7Qh583xY4S-9zNxdlOBMEPY7FHdo6jidrOjYE0PtA3POk54jxQM6BdAaFHA3fGLTnfwxof90FXX777PYrr3WoGaj0Ebjb46zPN5rV7pp2K-3WLfnWLv2WujiR6V2cytmdm24/s320/Panzerj%25C3%25A4ger.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Munitionspanzerjäger 38(t)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>My "what-if" vehicle depicts such a Munitionspanzer that has been given a new lease of life at the divisional workshop. <br />
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An F34 cannon has been removed from a T34 wreck and mounted upon the chassis. Scrap metal (old schürzen perhaps?) has been welded into a protective box - giving the creation the appearance of a crude "Marder". <br />
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I have no idea if anything similar to this "Imagineered" vehicle was made, but it is certainly <i>possible. </i>When you consider the various oddballs floating around this looks decidedly conservative!<br />
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The photo has been snapped on my iPhone and is therefore not too great. However the card mock-up (which needs tweaking) should give readers an idea of what is to come...<br />
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</div>Ritter von Krautheimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17968609436115962418noreply@blogger.com0